MyFarm’s investment in Tapawera Hop Garden is expected to create New Zealand’s largest hop garden, with the purchase of a 96-hectare property and the lease of a second 50-hectare property, which will be developed into a 116 canopy (effective) hectare garden.

Hops are a popular ingredient for flavour in craft beer – an industry that continues to grow each year as consumers flock to the scene.

Craft beer sales increased by 42 percent in 2015 despite a drop in overall beer sales, according to an ANZ Bank report.

“I think this is related to hops being quite a closed sector until now and people understanding the significant growth potential as a result of drinkers switching to craft beer,” Mr Watters said.

The majority of New Zealand's hops, which make up about one percent of the hop export market, are grown in the Nelson region.

The Tapawera Hop Garden is expected to reach full production by June 2022.